Vehicle entertainment system with flush supporting cradle

ABSTRACT

A vehicle includes a ceiling with a headliner. A cradle is secured within the ceiling of the vehicle such that it is substantially flush with the headliner, the cradle being shaped and dimensioned for selectively receiving and securely holding a video system.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/177,405, filed Jul. 11, 2005 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,604,273,entitled “Vehicle Entertainment System” which claims the benefit of U.S.Provision Application Ser. No. 60/690,874, filed Jun. 16, 2005, entitled“Vehicle Entertainment System”; and this application claims the benefitof U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/732,656, filed Nov.3, 2005, entitled “Vehicle Entertainment System”, U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 60/778,362, filed Mar. 3, 2006, entitled“Vehicle Entertainment System”, and U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 60/750,820, filed Dec. 16, 2005, entitled “VehicleEntertainment System Including Monitor for Rear View Enhancement”.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to mobile entertainment systems. Moreparticularly, the invention relates to portable entertainment systemsadapted for use in vehicles.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Entertainment systems for automobiles are well known. As such, manyadvances have been made in the development of entertainment systems thatmake the otherwise tedious task of riding in an automobile morebearable. In addition to the development of overhead systems pioneeredby the present inventor, systems that mount at various locations withinan automobile have also been developed.

These entertainment systems allow multiple individuals to view a varietyof different video sources within the same vehicle. However, and asthose skilled in the art will certainly appreciate, it is desirable toprovide added versatility to these entertainment systems. The presentinvention attempts to accomplish this by providing a system whereby thevideo system may be selectively removed from a mounting structure withinan automobile and used at other locations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide avehicle including a ceiling with a headliner. A cradle is secured withinthe ceiling of the vehicle such that it is substantially flush with theheadliner, the cradle being shaped and dimensioned for selectivelyreceiving and securely holding a video system.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a vehiclewherein the video system includes a video source and a video monitor.

It is also another object of the present invention to provide a vehiclewherein the video system includes electrical connections shaped anddimensioned for selective engagement with electrical connections formedwithin the cradle.

It is also a further object of the present invention to provide avehicle wherein the cradle includes a primary recess into which thevideo system is mounted.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a vehiclewherein the video system includes a housing in which a video monitor andvideo source are housed, the housing depending from a base shaped anddimensioned for selectively attachment to the cradle.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a vehiclewherein the base includes a mechanism for pivoting the video monitor.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide a vehiclewherein the base includes a mechanism for pivoting the video monitorabout multiple axes.

It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a vehicleincluding a cover for covering the cradle when it is not in use, thecover being substantially flush with the headliner and conforming with aprofile thereof.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a vehiclewherein the cover includes a light.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a vehiclewherein the cover includes a power source.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide anentertainment system for a vehicle including a ceiling with a headliner.The entertainment system includes a cradle shaped and dimensioned forsecuring within the ceiling of the vehicle such that it is substantiallyflush with the headliner. The entertainment system also includes a videosystem. The cradle is shaped and dimensioned for selectively receivingand securely holding the video system.

Other objects, advantages and salient features of the invention willbecome apparent from the following detailed description, which taken inconjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses a preferred, butnon-limiting, embodiment of the subject invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the video system andcradle.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the video system and cradle shown in FIG.1 (with the covet for use when the video system is not in use shown).

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the projecting attachment member.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the projecting attachment member.

FIG. 5 is a front plan view of a video system in accordance with analternate embodiment.

FIGS. 6, 7 and 8 are respectively a plan view, perspective view andperspective view of a video system in accordance with an alternateembodiment of the system shown in FIG. 1.

FIGS. 9, 10 and 11 are various views showing an attachment mechanism inaccordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the rotation control mechanism, in itsup (or storage) position, of the video system shown with reference toFIGS. 9, 10 and 11.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the rotation control mechanism in itsdown (or use) position, of the video system shown with reference toFIGS. 9, 10 and 11.

FIG. 14 is a schematic showing operation of the rotation controlmechanism shown in FIGS. 12 and 13.

FIGS. 15, 16, 17, 18 and 18 a show various multiple video systemembodiments in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 19, 20, 21 and 22 are perspective views of various covers whichmay be used in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 23 and 24 are perspective views of the video system with profilemembers secured thereto.

FIG. 25 shows various video monitors of different sizes which may beselectively used in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 26, 27 and 28 show the use of a forward facing video monitor inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 29 shows an alternate embodiment of a camera for use in conjunctionwith the forward facing video monitor in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 30 shows the video system of FIG. 1 mounted within a dash dockingstation.

FIG. 31 shows the video system of FIG. 1 mounted within a mobile dockingstation.

FIG. 32 shows the video system of FIG. 1 mounted within a static dockingstation.

FIG. 33 is a top view of a dash mounted docking station in accordancewith the present invention.

FIG. 34 is a front view of the docking station shown in FIG. 33.

FIG. 35 is a side view of the docking station shown in FIG. 33.

FIGS. 36, 37 and 38 show the forward and rearward pivoting ability ofthe docking station shown in FIG. 33.

FIGS. 39, 40 and 41 show the lateral pivoting capabilities of thedocking station shown with reference to FIG. 33.

FIGS. 42, 43 and 44 respectively show a rear view, side view andexploded perspective view of a portable docking station for use inaccordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 45 and 46 show a touch panel screen in which command instructionsare oriented based upon the orientation of the video monitor.

FIG. 47 shows an alternate embodiment of the feature presented withreference to FIGS. 45 and 46.

FIG. 48 is a front plan view of the video system and cradle inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 49 is a cross sectional view of the video system shown in FIG. 48.

FIG. 50 is a cross sectional view showing the embodiment of FIGS. 48 and49 installed within the ceiling of an automobile.

FIGS. 51 and 52 are cross sectional views showing various mountingstructures for use in accordance with the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein.It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments aremerely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in variousforms. Therefore, the details disclosed herein are not to be interpretedas limiting, but merely as the basis for the claims and as a basis forteaching one skilled in the art how to make and/or use the invention.

With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4, and in accordance with a firstembodiment of the present invention, an automobile entertainment system110 is disclosed. The automobile entertainment system 110 is composed ofa series of video and audio components integrated within an automobile111. As those skilled in the art will certainly appreciate, the variousembodiments of the present entertainment system are disclosed hereinwith reference to their use within an automobile. However, theentertainment system could certainly be used in other vehicles, forexample, boats or planes, without departing from the spirit of thepresent invention.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4, a video system 112 and mountingstructure are disclosed. The video system 112 is adapted for selectivemounting within the ceiling 113 of an automobile 111. It is furthercontemplated those skilled in the art will appreciate the conceptsunderlying the present invention provide for the possibility ofselectively mounting the video system within a variety of locationswithin an automobile, for example, the dashboard of an automobile.

The video system 112 is detachably mounted within a cradle 138 securedto the ceiling 113 of an automobile 111. The video system 112 generallyincludes a video monitor 116 for presenting media content and a videosource 120 integrated therewith.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, thevideo source is a DVD player coupled to the video monitor 116 for thetransmission of video content thereto. The DVD player, or other videosource 120, is integrated within the same video housing 118 as the videomonitor 116. In addition to, or in place of, video source 120 it is alsocontemplated a hard drive video source 123 may be integrated with thevideo monitor 116. The hard drive 123 includes inputs for receivingvideo content and outputs for transmitting video content to the videomonitor 116, both of which are well known to those skilled in the art.However, and as those skilled in the art will certainly appreciate, thevideo source may take a variety of other forms (for example, universalmedia disk) without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

The video monitor 116, DVD player 120, hard drive 123 and associatedcontrol components are mounted within the housing 118. In accordancewith a preferred embodiment, the video monitor 116 is a TFT LCD screen.However, it is contemplated other monitor constructions, for example,plasma, Ultra High Definition VGA, touch screen VGA, organic LED, fabricbased monitors (e.g., flexible TFT) etc., may be used without departingfrom the spirit of the present invention.

With regard to the DVD player 120, it is integrally molded within thehousing 118 and positioned for insertion of the DVDs behind the videomonitor 116. By mounting the DVD player 120 in this way, a stablestructure is developed that is well adapted for the automobileenvironment. While the DVD player is disclosed as being a slot-loadeddesign with insertion behind the video monitor, the DVD player couldtake a variety of other forms without departing from the spirit of thepresent invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the variousDVD designs that may be employed, for example, many can be seen in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/177,405, which is incorporated herein byreference.

Referring to FIG. 5, an alternate modular video system 112′ isdisclosed. In accordance with this system, the various components arenot hardwired but are incorporated within the video system 112′ viainterchangeable modules. For example, the video system 112′ is providedwith a removable and interchangeable module 120 a′ in which a hard diskdrive, flash memory drive, DVD player/recorder, CD player/recorder, BlueRay player/recorder, and an auxiliary battery may be incorporated. Asthose skilled in the art will certainly appreciate, other slot typemodules are utilized within the electronics industry and these may alsobe incorporated into the video system 112′. For example, a slot for aPCMCIA Card and/or Ie:Cell.Air card 120 b′ for downloading materials maybe incorporated. Similarly, memory cards 120 c′ and USB cards 120 d′ maybe incorporated into the video system 112′.

The video system 112 is detachably mounted within a cradle 138 formed inor secured to the ceiling 113 of the automobile 111. The design of thevideo system 112 and cradle 138 allows for the creation of multiplecradles 138 within an automobile, permitting selective positioning ofthe video system 112 at the various cradle locations within theautomobile 111.

More particularly, the base 164 of the video system 112 is mounted to acradle 138 formed within the ceiling 113 of the automobile 111 in amanner that permits rotation of the video housing 118 about multipleaxes. The base 164 includes a first hinge 166 that facilitates rotationof the video housing 118 about an axis substantially parallel to theceiling 113 of the automobile 111 for movement from its upward storageposition (see, for example, FIG. 12) to a downward use position (see,for example, FIG. 13) for viewing thereof. In an effort to preventunintentional rotation of the video system 112, in particular, the videohousing 118 and associated video monitor 116, the first hinge 166 isprovided with a safety lock 210. In accordance with a preferredembodiment of the present invention, the safety lock 210 is a latchmember shaped and dimensioned to selectively interfere with rotation ofthe video system 112 about the first hinge 166. With this in mind, thesafety lock 210 includes a user engagable handle 210 a allowing a userto move the safety lock 210 from its interference position blockingrotation of the video system 112 about the first hinge 166 to a releaseposition. Once the handle 210 a is released, a biasing member 210 b (forexample, a spring) forces the safety lock 210 back to its interferenceposition. The safety lock 210 will maintain the video system 112 in itsstorage position until such a time that a user desires to rotate thevideo system 112 about the first hinge 166 into its use position. Inorder to accomplish this rotation, the user must release the safety lock210 by actuating the safety lock 210 and rotating the video system 112from its storage position to its use position.

The base 164 further includes a second hinge 168 that permits rotationof the video housing 118 about an axis substantially perpendicular tothe axis of the first hinge 166. As such, the second hinge 168 allowsfor rotation of the video housing 118 in a manner that facilitatesviewing of the video monitor 116 from opposite sides of the automobile111. The video system 112 is, therefore, designed for rotation aboutmultiple axes and may be freely rotated to improve viewing regardless ofwhere the video system 112 is being used.

In addition to the provision of a safety lock 210 associated with thefirst hinge 166, the hinge structure also includes a tensioningmechanism 212. The tensioning mechanism 212 is designed to permit freerotation of the video system 112 when desired, but apply preselectedtension to the first and second hinges 166, 168 for controllingvibration of the video system 112 as the automobile 111 moves andvibrations are transmitted throughout the automobile 111. In addition topreventing the transmission of vibrations to the video system 112, thetensioning mechanism 212 also allows for controlled positioning of thevideo system 112 at a variety of angular orientations by simplyreleasing and reapplying the tensioning mechanism 212. In accordancewith a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the tensioningmechanism 212 includes a friction plate 212 a which selectively engagesthe first hinge 166 to hold the video system 112 in a desiredorientation. The friction plate 212 a is attached to a handle 212 bwhich allows the user to move the friction plate 212 a between atensioned orientation and an untensioned orientation. Similar frictionalplates (not shown) are associated with the second hinge 168 formaintaining desired positioning.

The base 164 further includes a projecting attachment member 170permitting selective coupling of the video system 112 within theautomobile 111. The attachment member 170 includes a fastening mechanism171 that permits secure and convenient attachment/removal of the videosystem 112 from the cradle 138. More particularly, the fasteningmechanism 171 includes first and second latch members 174 a, 174 bshaped and dimensioned for engaging respective first and second latchingrecesses 176 a, 176 b formed on opposite sides of the cradle 138. Thefirst and second latch members 174 a, 174 b are respectively actuated byprimary release buttons 178 a, 178 b of the first and second latchmembers 174 a, 174 b positioned at opposite ends of the video systembase 164. By pushing the release buttons 178 a, 178 b, the first andsecond latch members 174 a, 174 b disengage from the first and secondrecesses 176 a, 176 b, permitting the removal of the video system 112from the cradle 138.

Controlled release of the video system 112 from the cradle 138 isachieved through the provision of first and second safety buttons 180 a,180 b which selectively lock the first and second latch members 174 a,174 b in their latched position. More particularly, each of the firstand second safety buttons 180 a, 180 b include an obstructing member182, which sits within the path of the first and second latch members174 a, 174 b preventing movement thereof. Each of the obstructingmembers 182, however, includes a release aperture 184 which aligns witha projection 186 of the respective latch members 174 a, 174 b when thesafety buttons 184 a, 184 b, are pressed to permit movement of the latchmember 174 a, 174 b and release of the video system 112. Each of thefirst and second safety buttons 180 a, 180 b is spring biased via aspring 188 to ensure they remain in their safety position unlessintentionally pushed to permit movement of the first and second latchmembers 174 a, 174 b.

Referring to FIGS. 6, 7 and 8, the appearance of the video system 312′may be further enhanced by integrating the safety buttons 380 a, 380 bwith cover plates 381 a, 381 b positioned at the opposite ends of thebase 364. In accordance with this embodiment, rotation of the coverplates 381 a, 381 b actuates the safety button 380 a, 380 b to permitactuation of the first and second latch members 374 a, 374 b and revealthe first and second release buttons 378 a, 378 b.

The security of this system may be even further enhanced by linking thefirst and second latch members 374 a, 374 b, requiring that the firstand second latch members 374 a, 374 b be actuated simultaneously topermit removal of the video system 312 from the cradle 138. As thoseskilled in the art will appreciate, a variety of latching structures maybe employed without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

The cradle 138 is shaped and dimensioned for receiving and securing thevideo system 112 to the ceiling 113 of the automobile 111. As thoseskilled in the art will certainly appreciate, similar cradles may beprovided at other locations permitting use of the video system 112 atother remote locations within the same automobile or in otherautomobiles.

The cradle 138 utilized in accordance with a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention includes quick release electrical connections 142 forthe audio input 122, audio output 124, video input 126, video output 128and power supply 130 (although one embodiment contemplates a systemwhich connects only to a power supply). The video system 112, andparticularly, the base 164 of the video system 112, includes matingelectrical connections 144 for transmitting electricity and a/v signalsbetween the cradle 138 and the video system 112. In particular, when thevideo system 112 is mounted upon the cradle 138, the respectiveelectrical connections 142, 144 mate to provide for the transmission ofpower and a/v signals between the video system 112 and the cradle 138.As those skilled in the art will certainly appreciate, other readilyremovable electrical connections for other purposes may also besupplied.

In addition to the electrical connections provided on the cradle 138,and as was discussed above, the cradle 138 also includes a fasteningmechanism 172 adapted for selective engagement with the fasteningmechanism 171 of video system 112. The fastening mechanism 172 of thecradle 138 is composed of a primary recess 193 into which the projectingattachment member 170 of the base 164 of the video system 112 may bepositioned. The fastening mechanism 172 of the cradle 138 also includesthe first and second latching recesses 176 a, 176 b that are shaped anddimensioned for selectively and securely coupling with the first andsecond latch members 174 a, 174 b of the video system base 164. As thoseskilled in the art will certainly appreciate, the primary recess of thecradle and the projecting attachment member of the base may be formed ina variety of shapes so long as they are designed to provide for a secureattachment with very little play between the attached components.

The usefulness of the present embodiment is enhanced by the fact thecradle 138 is substantially recessed within the ceiling 113 of theautomobile 111. More particularly, each cradle 138 installed with anautomobile 111 is positioned such that the face plate 192 issubstantially flush with the headliner 194, or other automobile surface,directly adjacent thereto. With this in mind, the cradle 138 isconstructed with a metal mounting plate 196 directly secured to theceiling 113 of the automobile 111 and a ceiling docking port 198 securedthereto. In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the face place 192is formed as part of the ceiling docking port 198. The ceiling dockingport 198 includes the electrical and mechanical components discussedabove which allow for the direct attachment of the video system 112thereto.

Referring to FIGS. 9, 10 and 11, an alternate embodiment of thestructure for attaching the video system 412 to the cradle 438 isdisclosed. In accordance with this embodiment, the base 464 includesfirst and second projecting attachment members 470 a, 470 b shaped anddimensioned to engage respective first and second apertures 476 a, 476 bformed in the cradle 438. The first and second projecting attachmentmembers 470 a, 470 b each include an upwardly extending post 472 a, 472b with a resilient spring latch 474 a, 474 b formed thereon. As will bediscussed below in greater detail, the spring latches 474 a, 474 b areactuated to control passage through the respective first and secondapertures 476 a, 476 b during installation and removal.

As those skilled in the art will certainly appreciate, the first andsecond projecting attachment members 470 a, 470 b will only providelimited support. As such, the video system 412 is provided witheccentric shaped first and second locking members 478 a, 478 b and thecradle 438 is similarly provided with eccentric shaped first and secondlocking apertures 480 a, 480 b. The first and second locking members 478a, 478 b are shaped to pass through respective first and second lockingapertures 480 a, 480 b formed in the cradle when the shapes of the firstand second locking members 478 a, 478 b and the first and second lockingapertures 480 a, 480 b align. Once the first and second locking members478 a, 478 b are passed through the first and second locking apertures480 a, 480 b, the first and second locking members 478 a, 478 b arerotated such that the shape of the first and second locking members 478a, 478 b no longer align with the first and second locking apertures 480a, 480 b, and the video system 412 is thereby locked relative to thecradle 438.

As with the prior embodiment, and referring to FIGS. 9, 10 and 11, theattachment mechanism is further enhanced with first and second safetybuttons 482 a, 482 b associated with the first and second projectingattachment members 470 a, 470 b. The first and second safety buttons 482a, 482 b respectively control actuation of the spring latches 474 a, 474b extending from the projecting attachment members 470 a, 470 b so thatthe video system 412 may not be removed until the respective safetybuttons 482 a, 482 b are simultaneously actuated. In particular, thefirst and second safety buttons 482 a, 482 b cause controlled expansionand/or contraction of the spring latches 474 a, 474 b to permit orrestrict passage of the spring latches 474 a, 474 b through the firstand second apertures 476 a, 476 b. In accordance with a preferredembodiment, the safety buttons 482 a, 482 b control expansion and/orcontraction of the spring latches 474 a, 474 b by selectively drawingthe spring latches 474 a, 474 b inward in a manner making them narrower,and thereby allowing for passage through the first and second apertures476 a, 476 b. When the safety buttons 482 a, 482 b are not actuated thespring latches 474 a, 474 b extend outwardly in a manner preventingpassage of the spring latches 474 a, 474 b through the first and secondapertures 476 a, 476 b. Although a preferred technique is disclosedherein, other techniques could certainly be employed without departingfrom the spirit of the present invention.

In accordance with yet a further embodiment of the present invention,and with reference to FIG. 9, third and fourth safety buttons 484 a, 484b are associated with the first and second locking members 478 a, 478 band prevent rotation of the first and second locking members 478 a, 478b until the first and second safety buttons 484 a, 484 b aresimultaneously actuated. This embodiment also includes a tensioningmechanism 512 with a handle friction plate 512 a and handle 512 b.Although the various embodiments for the safety buttons are shown in asingle figure, those skilled in the art will appreciate they may be usedtogether or separately without departing from the spirit of the presentinvention.

More particularly, and as will be discussed below in greater detail, thecradle is secured to a lateral beam running along the roof of theautomobile. With this in mind, the orientation of the fasteningmechanism components is critical to the operation and installation ofthe present video system. More particularly, the base 464 of the videosystem includes first and second projecting attachment members 470 a,470 b shaped and dimensioned to engage respective first and secondapertures 476 a, 476 b formed in the cradle 438. The base 464 of thevideo system 412 also includes eccentric shaped first and second lockingmembers 478 a, 478 b and the cradle 438 is similarly provided witheccentric shaped first and second locking apertures 480 a, 480 b.Between the respective attachment members, locking members and aperturesare electrical connections, which are discussed below in greater detail,linking the video system to the cradle (and the remainder of theautomobile).

The spacing of the various fastening components relative to theelectrical connections 442, 444 is critical to placement of the cradle438, and ultimately the video system 412, along the beams, for example,the B-pillar 560 (see FIG. 15), formed in the roof of an automobile.With this in mind, the inner edge 481 a, 481 b, 479 a, 479 b of theouter most fastening component, for example, the respective inner edges481 a, 481 b of the locking apertures 480 a, 480 b or the respectiveinner edges 479 a, 479 b of the locking members 478 a, 478 b, ispreferably approximately ⅛ inch to approximately 7 inches from therespective outer edge 443 a, 443 b, 445 a, 445 b of the electricalconnection 442, 444, and more preferably approximately 2 inches toapproximately 4 inches from the outer edge 443 a, 443 b, 445 a, 445 b ofthe electrical connection 442, 444. It should be understand thesedistances are from adjacent fastening components to the outer edge ofthe electrical components. As such, and more particularly in accordancewith a preferred embodiment, the respective inner edges 481 a, 481 b ofthe first and second locking apertures 480 a, 480 b are preferablyapproximately ⅛ inch to approximately 7 inches from the respective firstand second outer edges 443 a, 443 b of the electrical connections 442,and more preferably approximately 2 inches to approximately 4 inchesfrom the respective first and second outer edges 443 a, 443 b of theelectrical connections 442. Similarly, the respective inner edges 479 a,479 b of the locking members 478 a, 478 b are preferably approximately ⅛inch to approximately 7 inches from the respective first and secondouter edges 445 a, 445 b of the electrical connection 444, and morepreferably approximately 2 inches to approximately 4 inches from therespective first and second outer edges 445 a, 445 b of the electricalconnection 444.

As with the embodiment disclosed above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4,the base 464 of the video system 412 is mounted to a cradle 438 formedwithin the ceiling 413 of the automobile 411 in a manner that permitsrotation of the video housing 418 about multiple axes. Moreparticularly, the base 464 includes a first hinge 466 that facilitatesrotation of the video housing 418 about an axis substantially parallelto the ceiling 413 of the automobile 411 for movement from its storage(or up) position to a downward use position for viewing thereof In aneffort to provide for controlled rotation of the video monitor 416 aboutan axis substantial parallel to the ceiling of the automobile, the firsthinge 466 is provided with a rotation control mechanism 520. Inaddition, to limiting movement of the video system 412, in particular,the housing 418, about the first hinge 466, the rotation controlmechanism 520 adjusts the storage position of the video system 412 foralignment with the ceiling 413, in particular, the headliner 494, of theautomobile 411. This adds to the versatility of the present system inthat each automobile has a slightly different, and oftentimesdrastically different, ceiling profile. As such, the present rotationcontrol mechanism 520 allows for ready adjustment of the present videosystem 412 permitting optimized installation and usage of the presentsystem.

With this in mind, and with reference to FIGS. 12, 13 and 14, therotation control mechanism 520 of the first hinge 466 includes a firstdetent adjustment wheel 522 designed for limiting the position of thevideo system 412 as it is moved to its use position and a second detentadjustment wheel 524 designed for limiting the position of the videosystem 412 as it is moved to its storage position. Both the first detentadjustment wheel 522 and the second detent adjustment wheel 524 are inalignment with the pivot pin 526 of the first hinge 466, providing anideal location for control of the rotation of the video system.

A first detent notch 528 is associated with the first detent adjustmentwheel 522. The first detent notch 528 is shaped and dimensioned tointeract with a first detent 530 extending laterally from the housing418 and in substantial alignment for interaction with the first detentnotch 528. As such, when the housing 418 of the video system 412 isrotated about the first hinge 466 toward its downward use position, thefirst detent 530 will ultimately contact the first detent notch 528,seat therein and substantially prevent further movement of the housing418. As those skilled in the art will certainly appreciate, it may bedesirable to provide multiple viewing angles when the housing 418 is inits use position. With this in mind, the first detent adjustment wheelmay be provided with multiple detent notches in which the first detentis selectively seated based upon the desired viewing angle.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the first detent 530 isbiased by spring 532 toward the first detent notch 528. Release,thereof, is provided by a button 534 linked to the first detent 530permitting withdrawal of the first detent 530 from the first detentnotch 528.

With regard to the second detent adjustment wheel 524, it includes asecond detent notch 536 associated therewith. The second detent notch536 is shaped and dimensioned to interact with a second detent 538extending laterally from the housing 418 and in substantial alignmentfor interaction with the second detent notch 536. As such, when thehousing 418 of the video system 412 is rotated about the first hinge 466toward its storage position, the second detent 538 will ultimatelycontact the second detent notch 536, seat therein and substantiallyprevent further movement of the housing 418. In accordance with apreferred embodiment, the second detent 538 is biased by a spring 539toward the second detent notch 536. Release, thereof, is provided by abutton 540 linked to the second detent 538 permitting withdrawal of thesecond detent 538 from the second detent notch 536.

The first and second adjustment wheels 522, 524 are secured to the firsthinge 466 for movement relative thereto for ultimately controlling theposition of the first and second detent notches 528, 536. As such, thefirst and second adjustment wheels 522, 524 are designed to permitselective rotation relative to the first hinge 466 for adjusting thedesired stop points, but are generally fixed during usage thereof suchthat as the housing 418 of the video system 412 is rotated about thefirst hinge 466, the stop points will remain consistent and reliable.

In addition to the use of the rotation control mechanism 520 describedabove, it is contemplated a retaining mechanism, for example, a magnetsystem, 1721 may be used to hold the video system 1712 close to theheadliner 1794 of the automobile 1711. That is, the retaining mechanismmaintains the video system 1712 adjacent the headliner 1794 and thecradle 1738 when it is in its storage position. Such a system will helpin preventing shaking and other undesirable movement of the video system1712. In particular, and with reference to FIGS. 48, 49 and 50, themounting bracket 1739 securing the cradle 1738 adjacent the ceiling1713, and ultimately the video system 1712, is provided with amagnetically active metal portion 1797 a that aligns with magnets 1797 bformed in the video system 1712 when the video system 1712 is rotated toits storage position. By providing the magnetically active metal portion1797 a and the magnets 1797 b in this manner, the video system 1712 isheld close to the headliner 1794 of the automobile 1711 when in itsstorage position.

Referring to FIGS. 51 and 52, it is further contemplated othermechanisms for holding the video system close to the headliner may beemployed. With reference to FIG. 51, the conventional magnets disclosedwith reference to FIGS. 48, 49 and 50, may be replaced withelectromagnets 1897 a, 1897 b. As such, when it is sensed that the videosystem 1812 is rotated to within, for example, two inches of theheadliner 1894, the electromagnets 18997 a, 1897 b within the headliner1894 and the video system 1812 are activated to drawn the video system1812 toward the headliner 1894 such that it is securely stored at itsstorage position.

In accordance with an alternate embodiment, and with reference to FIG.52, a latch 1999 is provided for extension from the cradle 1939 andthrough the headliner 1994. The latch 1999 is designed to rotate forwardto a position for engaging the video system 1912 when the video system1912 is rotated to its storage position.

The base 464 further includes a second hinge 468 that permits rotationof the video housing 418 about an axis substantially perpendicular tothe axis of the first hinge 466. As such, the second hinge 468 allowsfor rotation of the video housing 418 in a manner that facilitatesviewing of the video monitor 416 from opposite sides of the automobile411. The video system 412 is, therefore, designed for rotation aboutmultiple axes and may be freely rotated to improve viewing regardless ofwhere the video system 412 is being used.

In addition to the provision of a rotation control mechanism associatedwith the first hinge 466, the hinge structure also includes a tensioningmechanism 512. The tensioning mechanism 512 is designed to permit freerotation of the video system 512 when desired, but apply preselectedtension to the first hinges 466 for controlling vibration of the videosystem 412 as the automobile moves and vibrations are transmittedthroughout the automobile. In addition to preventing the transmission ofvibrations to the video system 412, the tensioning mechanism 512 alsoallows for controlled positioning of the video system 412 at a varietyof angular orientations by simply releasing and reapplying thetensioning mechanism 512. In accordance with a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention, the tensioning mechanism 512 includes a frictionplate 512 a that selectively engages the first hinge 466 to hold thevideo system 412 in a desired orientation. The friction plate 512 a isattached to a handle 512 b that allows the user to move the frictionplate 512 a between a tensioned orientation and an untensionedorientation. Similar frictional plates (not shown) are associated withthe second hinge for maintaining desired positioning. As those skilledin the art will appreciate, a similar tensioning mechanism may beapplied to the second hinge 468.

As those skilled in the art will certainly appreciate, cradle basedelectronic devices are often confronted with the problem of peopleattempting to link non-compatible electronic products. Although this issometimes acceptable as the products being linked are minimallycompatible, this often results in problems due to non-compatible powersupplies or signal processing protocols. With this in mind, the presentcradle 438/video system 412 has been developed so as to ensure onlyapproved and compatible video systems may be used when placed within acradle manufactured in accordance with the present invention. Inparticular, the cradle 438 is provided with an RF identificationtransceiver 542 that interacts with a similar RF identificationtransceiver 544 mounted within, for example, the base 464 of the videosystem 412. As such, the electrical connections 442 of the cradle 438are linked to the RF identification transceiver 542 and will remainclosed until a video system 412 with an appropriate RF identificationtransceiver 544 is placed within the cradle 438.

Controlled use of the cradle and video system may further be achievedvia direct electrical communication between the cradle and the videosystem. In particular, and in accordance with an alternate embodiment ofthe present invention, the cradle and video system could be providedwith respective electrical connections that permit usage only when theelectrical connection is complete.

As with embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4, the cradle438 is shaped and dimensioned for receiving and securing the videosystem 412 to the ceiling of the automobile. As those skilled in the artwill certainly appreciate, similar cradles may be provided at otherlocations permitting use of the video system 412 at other remotelocations.

With this in mind, and with reference to FIG. 15, various cradles 438may be mounted within an automobile for receiving video systems 412 in amanner permitting viewing from different locations within theautomobile. For example, cradles 438 may be positioned along the sameB-pillar 560 at laterally spaced positions within the automobile asshown in FIG. 15 and/or cradles may be positioned along differentB-pillars spaced along the length of the automobile.

In addition, it is likely people sitting on opposite sides of thevehicle will be interested in watching different videos. As such, a dualmonitor system 410′, 410″, 410′″ is contemplated in accordance with thepresent invention as shown with reference to FIGS. 16, 17 and 18. Thedual monitor systems 410′, 410″, 410′″ include respective first andsecond monitors 416 a′, 416 a″, 416 a′″, 416 b′, 416 b″, 416 b′″ andfirst and second video sources (not shown) mounted with first and secondhousings 418 a′, 418 a″, 418 a′″, 418 b′, 418 b″, 418 b′″. Each of thehousings 418 a′, 418 a″, 418 a′″, 418 b′, 418 b″, 418 b′″ is linked to asingle base 464′, 464″, 464′″ from which the first and second housings418 a′, 418 a″, 418 a′″, 418 b′, 418 b″, 418 b′″ extend. Pivotalconnections linking the first and second housings 418 a′, 418 a″, 418a′″, 418 b′, 418 b″, 418 b′″ to the base 464′, 464″, 464′″ allow forrotation of the first and second housings 418 a′, 418 a″, 418 a′″, 418b′, 418 b″, 418 b′″ between a storage positioned and a use position.Referring to FIG. 18 a, a dual monitor system 410″″ may be providedwhich connects with two cradles 438″″ mounted along the same B-pillar560″″.

The cradle 438 includes quick release electrical connections 442 for theaudio input, audio output, video input, video output and power supply(although one embodiment contemplates a system which connects only to apower supply). The video system 412, and particularly, the base 464 ofthe video system 412, includes mating electrical connections 444 fortransmitting electricity and a/v signals between the cradle 438 and thevideo system 412.

In addition to the electrical connections provided on the cradle 438,and as was discussed above, the cradle 438 also includes a variousfastening apertures 476 a, 476 b, 480 a, 480 b adapted for selectiveengagement with the attachment members 470 a, 470 b, 478 a, 478 b ofvideo system 412.

As with the prior embodiment, the usefulness of the present invention isenhanced by the fact that the cradle 438 is substantially recessedwithin the ceiling 413 of the automobile 411. More particularly, eachcradle 438 installed with an automobile 411 is positioned such that theface plate 492 is substantially flush with the headliner 494, or otherautomobile surface, directly adjacent thereto. With this in mind, thecradle 438 is constructed with a metal mounting plate 496 directlysecured to the ceiling 413, more particularly, the B-pillar 560 (seeFIG. 15), of the automobile 411 and a ceiling docking port 498 securedthereto. The ceiling docking port 498 includes the electrical andmechanical components discussed above which allow for the directattachment of the video system 412 thereto.

Regardless of which embodiment is employed, the installation of thecradle 138, 438 is intended to provide for an aesthetically pleasingappearance and the ceiling docking port 198, 498 is, therefore, providedwith a face plate 192, 492 which substantially aligns with and is,therefore, flush with the headliner 194, 494 of the automobile 111. Withthis in mind, the following disclosure applies to both embodiments ofthe video system presented above, although only the first embodimentshown in FIGS. 1 to 4 is referenced herein. Aesthetics are furtherenhanced by the provision of a cover member 200, 200′, 200″ which may beselectively placed over the ceiling docking port 198 when it is not inuse. With this in mind, the cover member 200, 200′, 200″ are designed tosubstantially conform with the color, fabric, texture etc. of theheadliner 194, 494. The cover member is further designed to besubstantially flush with the headliner and conform with the profilethereof.

The cover member 200, 200′, 200″ is preferably frictionally engaged withdocking port 198 when positioned for covering. As such, and inaccordance with a preferred embodiment, the cover member 200, 200′, 200′is provided with snap connections 210, 210′, 210″ shaped and dimensionedfor engagement with the cradle 138, 438.

As shown with reference to FIGS. 19, 20 and 21, the cover member may bea simple cover 200 (see FIG. 19), a powered cover 200′ with variouspower sources 202′ extending therefrom (see FIG. 20) or an illuminatingcover 200″ with lights 202″ (see FIG. 21). Where the covers requirepower, the cover is provided with an electrical connection 244′, 244″allowing the cover 200′, 200″ to tap into the power supply of the cradle438.

Another cover 200′″ employing a rear seat, or baby, camera 202′″ is alsocontemplated as shown in FIG. 22. The cover 200′″ includes a rearwardlyfacing video camera 202′″ linked to a video monitor either integratedwithin the rearview mirror of the automobile or independently mountedalong the dash of the automobile. By utilizing this cover 200′″, adriver may keep an eye on what is going on in the backseat of anautomobile without constantly turning around to view the rear seats ofthe vehicle. As those skilled in the art will appreciate the videocamera 202′″ is linked to the video monitor via the electricalconnections 244′″ of the cover 200′″ and the cradle 138, which areultimately linked to the video monitor via wired or wireless means knownto those skilled in the art. Similarly, and as discussed below ingreater detail, the video monitor itself may be provided with arearwardly facing video camera performing the same function as the videocamera mounted within the cover.

The cover 200′″ may also be provided with a Bluetooth processor 204′″programmed to interact with a variety of Bluetooth appliances that mightbe brought into the automobile. For example, the Bluetooth processor204′″ might provide for hands-free cell phone usage, wireless Internetaccess for those bringing a Bluetooth enable laptop into the automobile,etc. Additional functionalities may include, for example, and notlimited to, those discussed herein with regard to the use of anexpansion slot.

The aesthetically pleasing nature of the present embodiment is furtherenhanced by the provision of a “free floating” video system 112, 412.More particularly, and as discussed above when describing the variousembodiments of the present video system 112, 412, the housing 118, 418with the video monitor 116, 416 and video source 120, 420 housed thereindepends from the base 164, 464 which is then mounted to the recessedcradle 138, 438 formed within the ceiling of the automobile. As such,the video system 112, 412 depends from the ceiling integrated cradle138, 438 without the need for a surrounding support structure, allowingfor the provision of a self-sufficient video system 112, 412. Moreparticularly, when the video system 112, 412 is rotated to its storageposition, it is substantially parallel and adjacent the headliner 194,494 with no support structure surrounding the unattached outerperimeter, that is, the free side edges 119 a-c, 419 a-c to which thebase 164, 464 is not attached, of the housing 118, 418. This improvesthe aesthetics of the video system 112, 412 and does not require that asubstantial portion of the headliner 194, 494 be covered or cut away toaccommodate the installation thereof.

Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, the “free floating” video system 612 ofthe present invention is further enhanced by providing selectivelyattachable profile members 714 to the free side edges 619 a-c of thehousing 618. The profile members 714 are designed to substantiallyconform to the headliner 694 shape of the vehicle such that when thevideo system 612 is rotated to its storage position as shown in FIG. 24,the video system 612 will substantially conform with the headliner 694in an aesthetically pleasing manner.

By manufacturing the profile members 714 such that they are detachablysecured to the housing 618, the video system 612 may be readily adaptedto conform to the headliner 694 profile of a variety of vehicles bysimply replacing the profile members 714. Selective attachment of theprofile members 714 is achieved by the provision of mating couplingmembers 716, 718 formed along the connecting surfaces of the profilemembers 714 and the housing 618. While a variety of coupling members maybe utilized in accordance with the present invention, the preferredcoupling members will be engaging male and female latch members formedalong the connecting surfaces of the profile members and the housing.

In addition to the aesthetically pleasing nature of a “free floating”video system, the fact that no support structure surrounds the videosystem allows for the ready replacement of the video system with othervideo systems 812 a, 812 b, 812 c of differing sizes and shapes (seeFIG. 25). As such, a driver may choose to use various different videosystems of different sizes depending upon the needs of the driver.Similarly, a dealer or installer can sell the same system at differentprices depending upon the size of the monitor required by the customer.

As a user replaces the present video system 812 with a larger videosystem, it might be found that the larger video system 812 blocks thedriver's view as he or she looks through the rearview mirror 802 of theautomobile 811. With this in mind, the video system 812 is provided witha rearwardly facing video camera 938, 938 a and a forward facing videomonitor 932.

More particularly, and referring to FIGS. 26 to 29, the video system 812includes a rear facing surface 934 from which the video monitor 816discussed above projects images for viewing by passengers of theautomobile 811. The video system also includes a front facing surface936. A forward facing video monitor 932 is provided on the front facingsurface 936 for alignment with the rearview mirror 802 and viewing bythe driver when the video system 812 is in its use position.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, theforward facing video monitor 932 is linked to a video camera 938 mountedalong the rear facing surface 934 of the video system 812 (see FIGS. 26to 28) or a video camera 938 a mounted along the rear portion 940 of theautomobile 811 (see FIG. 29). As such, and when the video system 812 isrotated to its use position, the system is activated and the videocamera 938, 938 a is positioned to look out the rear window 804 of theautomobile 811. The image generated by the video camera 938, 938 a isthen transferred to the forward facing video monitor 932 where thedriver may look at the image as he or she looks in the rearview mirror802.

In order to ensure proper usage of the rearview video camera 938, 938 a,activation of the system (that is, the video camera 938, 938 a and theforward facing video monitor 932) is linked to rotation of the videosystem 812 from a storage position substantially parallel with theceiling of the automobile 811 to a use position rotated away from theceiling of the automobile. More particularly, the video system 812 isprovided with a switch 813 that identifies rotation from a storageposition to a use position and accordingly activates the video camera938, 938 a and forward facing video monitor 932 for viewing behind theautomobile 811. As those skilled in the art will certainly appreciate,the video cameras 938, 938 a may be used in tandem are separately.

Further to the problems associated with the desire to place largemonitors within an automobile, it is contemplated the video cameradiscussed above with reference to FIGS. 26 to 29 may be linked to avideo monitor positioned for direct viewing by the automobile driver. Inaccordance with such an embodiment, the video monitor would beintegrated within the rearview mirror of the automobile so that thedriver will need only look to the rearview mirror in the manner he orshe would normally look to the rearview mirror for viewing behind theautomobile.

It is further contemplated the video camera 938 within the video system812 may be positioned to monitor the back seats of the vehicle inaddition to, or in conjunction, with the rearview traffic. This could beachieved by moving the camera 938, or utilizing multiple cameras, suchthat both views of the rearview traffic and the backseats are shown uponthe forward facing video monitor 932.

Referring once again to the embodiment disclosed with reference to FIGS.1 to 4, although these features apply equally to the other embodimentspresented throughout the present disclosure, cables 132 extend throughthe ceiling 113 and the cradle 138. These cables 132 ultimately linkaudio, video and power to the cradle 138 and video system 112. Morespecifically, the cradle 138 and video system 112 are electricallyconnected to the remainder of the automobile 111 via electricalcommunication lines in a manner known to those skilled in the art.

Specific wiring arrangements and linking of various video systems withinan automobile in accordance with preferred embodiments of the presentinvention are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/920,425,entitled “AUTOMOBILE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM”, filed Aug. 18, 2004, whichis incorporated herein by reference, U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/895,111, entitled “AUTOMOBILE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM”, filed Jul. 21,2004, which is incorporated herein by reference, U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/895,110, entitled “AUTOMOBILE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM LINKINGMULTIPLE VIDEO SYSTEM FOR COORDINATED SHARING OF VIDEO CONTENT”, filedJul. 21, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/895,086, entitled “HOUSING FOR AN AUTOMOBILEENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM”, filed Jul. 21, 2004, which is incorporated hereinby reference, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/895,099, entitled“INSTALLATION APPARATUS FOR AN AUTOMOBILE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM”, filedJul. 21, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/920,431, entitled “AUTOMOBILE ENTERTAINMENTSYSTEM”, filed Aug. 18, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference,and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/920,430, entitled “AUTOMOBILEENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM”, filed Aug. 18, 2004, which is incorporated hereinby reference.

The present video system 112 is provided with the ability to offer avariety of functionalities. These functionalities may be hardwired orprogrammed within the video system 112 or the functionalities may beadded in a modular manner via an expansion slot 140 provided within thevideo system 112. Contemplated functionalities include, but are notlimited to satellite radio (for example, Serius, XM), Pictel phone,satellite television (for example, DirecTV), GPS guidance systems, quickrelease battery packs, memory cards, wireless internet access (forexample, Wi-Fi), Bluetooth, digital video recorders, digital videoreception and recording, digital video inputs, video conferencing,cellular digital, cellular digital with a camera, USB capabilities, Bluesphere, Blu-ray technology, hot swap hard drive, satellite video importcard, wireless video import card, supplemental hard drive, flash memoryaccessibility, wireless download capabilities, PCICM slots, etc.

In addition, the video system may also be provided with a flashlight 135controlled by an on/off switch 135 a, which runs off a battery 220mounted within the video system 112. The video system 112 may further beprovided with both a 110 A power outlet 137 a and a 12 V power outlet137 b for connection with other electronic devices requiring power.

As the present video system 112 is designed for use at a variety oflocations and potentially at locations remote from a cradle, the videosystem 112 is provided with a battery 220. The battery 220 is preferablya rechargeable battery and, as such, will be regularly recharged whenthe video system 112 is mounted within the cradle 138 and coupled to thepower supply running therethrough.

As shown best with reference to the video system 412 as shown in FIG.45, enhanced usage is further provided by the inclusion of USB ports,flash memory slots, cellular card slots, IR transmitters, RCA ports,power buttons or other a/v input/outputs, formed within the housing 418of the video system 412 and contained behind cover 418 a, 418 b whichmay be selectively opened to reveal the ports and slots. The inclusionof these ports allows for ready attachment of the present video systemto other remote a/v sources (for example, game consoles, portabledigital music players, etc.). It is also contemplated such ports, slotsand other accessories may be integrated with the cradle.

In addition, a broadcast television receiver and antenna may beintegrated with the video monitor as discussed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/177,405, which is incorporated herein byreference and/or the headrest.

Control of the video system 112, including the video monitor 116, DVDplayer 120, hard drive 123 and other components of the video system 112,is facilitated by the provision of control buttons along the outersurface of the video system 112. In accordance with a preferredembodiment of the present invention, the control buttons take the formof a multifunction controller 160 permitting movement of a cursor shownupon various interfaces displayed upon the video in a well known manner.In addition, conventional control buttons 162 may also be provided forcontrol of traditional functions. In addition to the provision of manualcontrol buttons 162, the video system 112 may further include a remotecontrol (not shown) such that an individual need not actually touch thevideo system 112 to control the video system 112.

As briefly mentioned above, the present video system 112 (whether it bethe video system disclosed with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4 or thatdisclosed with reference to the various other embodiments) is adaptedfor removal from the ceiling cradle 138 of an automobile 111 for use ata variety of other locations. In accordance with a preferred embodimentof the present invention, the other locations are provided with dockingstations 1050, 1150, 1250 including auxiliary cradles 1038, 1138, 1238shaped and dimensioned for receiving the video system 112 and couplingthe video system 112 to power sources and a/v sources in a mannersimilar to the cradle 138 used in conjunction with the ceiling 113 (seeFIGS. 30, 31 and 32).

For example, and with reference to FIG. 30 a docking station 1050 foruse in conjunction with the dash 1052 of a conventional automobile 1011is shown. The docking station 1050 includes an auxiliary cradle 1038(with electrical connections and a connecting mechanism (not shown))shaped and dimensioned for receiving and securely holding the videosystem 112 and coupling the video system 112 to power sources and a/vsources in a manner similar to the cradle 138 used in conjunction withthe ceiling 113. The docking station 1050 is mounted upon the dash 1052of an automobile 1011 and is wired for connection to a power source anda/v sources. In addition, the dash docking station 1050 may include anintegrated satellite receiver 1054 for providing satellite content tothe passengers of the automobile 1011 by transmitting the satellitesignal through the cradle 1038 and into the video system 112 via therespective electrical connections of the cradle 1038 and the videosystem 112. This embodiment is particularly useful where the videosystem 112 includes functionality relating to the provision of GPSguidance information. With this in mind, the driver will be able toselectively use the video system 112 for accessing guidance informationwhen needed and return the video system 112 to the ceiling cradle 138when guidance information is no longer needed.

With reference to FIG. 31, a mobile docking station 1150 may also beprovided. The mobile docking station 1150 also includes an auxiliarycradle 1138 (with electrical connections and a connecting mechanism (notshown)) shaped and dimensioned for receiving and securely supporting thevideo system 112 and coupling the video system 112 to power sources anda/v sources in a manner similar to the cradle 138 used in conjunctionwith the ceiling. The docking station 1150 may include a battery pack1155, a/v inputs 1156, a/v outputs 1157, Internet capability, speakers1158, cable input 1159 and/or an integrated satellite receiver 1154.These components are linked to the video system 112 via the cradle 1138which transmits the relevant signals to and from the video system 112via the respective electrical connections of the cradle 1138 and thevideo system 112.

As shown in FIGS. 30 and 31, when the video system 112 is mounted to thedocking stations 1050, 1150, it may be necessary to mount the videosystem 112 upside down when compared to its mounting within anautomobile 111. With this in mind, the video system 112 is provided withthe ability to rotate to the image shown on the video monitor 116 sothat the video system 112 may be used in a variety of orientations. Thepossible rotation of the image shown on the video monitor 116 iscomplemented by the multifunctional controller 160 that adjusts to therotation of the image such that the controller 160 is calibrated tofunction in accordance with the orientation of the screen image.

With reference to FIG. 32, yet a further embodiment of a docking station1250 is disclosed. This docking station 1250 is adapted for staticmounting within a household, office or other locations (for example,beneath a kitchen cabinet 853). The docking station 1250 includes anauxiliary cradle 1238 (with electrical connections and a connectingmechanism (not shown)) shaped and dimensioned for receiving and securelysupporting the video system 112 and coupling the video system 112 topower sources and a/v sources in a manner similar to the cradle 138 usedin conjunction with the ceiling. The docking station 1250 may include abattery pack 1255, a/v inputs 1256, a/v outputs 1257, Internetcapability, speakers 1258, cable input 1259 and/or an integratedsatellite receiver 1254. These components are linked to the video system112 via the cradle 1238 which transmits the relevant signals to and fromthe video system 112 via the respective electrical connections of thecradle 1238 and the video system 112.

As mentioned above, the present invention is adapted for utilization inconjunction with a dash mounted docking station. However, and as thoseskilled in the art will certainly appreciate, various state and localregulations prohibit the utilization of a front seat mounted videosystem wherein the driver of the vehicle is exposed to videoentertainment. However, these state and local regulations do notprohibit a video display that provides the driver with usefulinformation regarding the operation and performance of his or hervehicle, as well as navigation information provided with current GPSnavigation systems.

With the foregoing in mind, the docking station 1350 disclosed withreference to FIGS. 33 to 41 is specifically adapted for utilization andmounting upon the dash 1352 of a conventional automobile 1311.Generally, and as will be discussed below in greater detail, the dockingstation 1350 is designed such that the video system 112 will provideonly navigation-based displays when directed toward the driver of theautomobile 1311 and will provide all video functionalities when orientedtoward the passenger of the automobile 1311.

More particularly, and with reference to the various figures, thedocking station 1350 includes a base 1360 upon which is mounted a cradle1338. The base 1360 is shaped and dimensioned for secure attachment tothe dash 1352 of an automobile 1311 using conventional brackets andcoupling structures known to those skilled in the art. The cradle 1338is pivotally mounted upon the base 1360 for movement about multipleaxes. The cradle 1338 is shaped and dimensioned to receive and supportthe video system 112. With this in mind, the cradle 1338 is providedwith quick release electrical connections 1342 for the audio input 1322,audio output 1324, video input 1326, video output 1328 and power supply1330. As discussed previously, the video system 112 similarly includesmating electrical connections 144 for transmitting electricity and AVsignals between the cradle 1338 and the video system 112. In particular,when the video system 112 is mounted upon the cradle 1338, therespective electrical connections 144, 1342 mate to provide for thetransmission of power and AV signals between the video system 112 andthe cradle 1338. As those skilled in the art will certainly appreciate,other readily removable electrical connections for other purposes mayalso be supplied if one determines they are so needed.

In addition to the electrical connections 1342 provided in the cradle1338, the cradle 1338 also includes a connecting mechanism 1362 designedfor selectively retaining the video system 112 within the cradle 1338.In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, asnap mechanism well known to those skilled in the industry will be usedin selectively securing the video system within the cradle, althoughother coupling structure may be used without departing from the spiritof the present invention. The connecting mechanism 1362 permits readyand selective attachment of the video system 112 to the docking station1350 while preventing vibrations and other damaging movements that mayoccur in an automobile. As those skilled in the art will certainlyappreciate, the connecting mechanism may take a variety of forms knownto those skilled in the art.

As discussed above, the cradle 1338 is mounted upon the base 1360 forpivotal movement relative thereto. With this in mind, a first pivotalcoupling 1364 allows for forward and rearward tilting of the cradle 1338to allow a viewer to adjust the viewing angle at which the video system112 is oriented.

In addition, the base 1360 is provided with a second pivotal coupling1366 allowing the cradle 1338 to be rotated about an axis extendingsubstantially perpendicular to the base 1360 and providing fortransverse rotation of the cradle 1338. This rotation allows the videosystem 112 to be selectively oriented for viewing by either the driveror the passenger in the front seat. Movement of the cradle 1338 aboutthis axis is controlled by a release mechanism 1368 which allows one toselectively move the cradle 1338 about the second pivotal coupling 1366and subsequently lock it in a desired position. In accordance with apreferred embodiment of the present invention, it is contemplated a twostage release mechanism known to those skilled in the art will be usedin an effort to enhance safety, although other release structures knownwithin the art may be employed without departing from the spirit of thepresent invention.

The cradle 1338 (and ultimately the video system 112 via the electricalconnections 144 and 1342) is electrically coupled to the second pivotalcoupling 1366 via a switch 1370 so that it may signal the video system112 as to the specific orientation of the cradle 1338; that is, whetherthe cradle 1338 is oriented for viewing by the driver or for by viewingof a passenger within the front seat. When the cradle 1338 is orientedfor viewing by the driver (see FIG. 39) the switch 1370 signals thevideo system 112 that it is oriented for viewing by the driver and thevideo system 112 may, therefore, only display navigation basedinformation. Control of these instructions is provided via the switch1370 contained within the second pivotal coupling 1366, as well as themicroprocessor 1374 controlling operation of the video system 112. Whenthe video system 112 is rotated (see FIG. 40) for viewing by thepassenger, the switch 1370 is once again activated and the video system112 is instructed that the cradle 1338 is oriented for viewing by thepassenger within the front seat of the automobile 1311. When thisinstruction is provided, the video system 112 is then able to performall functionalities associated therewith.

As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the functionalities mayinclude, but are not limited to the various functions previouslydiscussed with relation to the prior embodiments. In addition, and aswith the prior embodiments, the docking station 1350 may further includea battery pack, AV inputs, AV outputs, Internet capabilities, speakers,cable input, and/or integrated satellite receivers. Those skilled in theart will also appreciate that the concepts underlying the presentdocking station may be employed with a system wherein the video systemis integrated with the docking station, and is, therefore, designed onlyfor use as a dash-mounted video system.

In addition to the fixedly mounted docking stations disclosed above, aportable docking station 1400 is disclosed with reference to FIGS. 42,43 and 44. As with the fixedly mounted docking stations, this portabledocking station 1400 includes a cradle 1430 shaped and dimensioned forreceiving the video system 412 (although the present disclosure appliesequally to the other video system embodiments disclosed herein) andcoupling the video system 412 to power sources and a/v sources in amanner similar to the cradle used in conjunction with the ceiling.

The docking station 1400 includes a housing 1402 in which a cradle 1430is positioned at a first end 1404 thereof The cradle 1430 includesfastening structures similar to those disclosed above with reference toFIGS. 9, 10 and 11 to permit selective attachment of the video system412 thereto. The housing 1402 further includes a handle 1406 adjacentthe cradle 1430 for carrying the video system 412 in a convenient andcomfortable manner.

As with the fixedly mounted docking stations, this portable dockingstation 1400 includes inputs 1450, 1452 for connection to a power sourceand a/v sources. In addition, the docking station 1400 includes abattery 1455 for additional power storage for use when now hardwiredpower source is readily available. The docking station 1400 alsoincludes Internet capability, speakers 1458, cable input 1459 and/or anintegrated satellite receiver 1460. These components are linked to thevideo system 412 via the cradle 1430 which transmits the relevantsignals to and from the video system via the respective electricalconnections of the cradle and the video system.

A further feature of the present invention is disclosed with referenceto FIGS. 45 and 46. In accordance with this embodiment, the potentialthat the video system may be utilized in a variety of orientations (forexample flipped upside down) is addressed by providing a video system1512 with a video monitor 1516 having a touch screen VGA panel 1517. Thevideo system 1512 also includes a touch panel control system 1560 that“flips” the graphical user interface control panel 1576 when the videosystem 1512 is positioned in a specific orientation. In particular, themicroprocessor 1572 of the video system 1512 is provided with anorientation sensor 1574. The orientation sensor 1574 instructs themicroprocessor 1572 as to the orientation of the video system 1512.Based upon the orientation of the video system 1512, a graphical userinterface control panel 1576 provided upon the touch screen panel 1517of the video system 1512 orients itself for viewing and actuation by auser. For example, and with reference to FIG. 45, when the video system1512 is oriented with the electrical connections 1544 facing downwardly,for example, when used in a dash docking station, the control panel 1576is provided in a horizontal orientation properly positioned for viewingby the automobile passenger. However, when the video system 1512 istransferred and oriented from an overhead support, for example, whenmounted in the ceiling of a vehicle or under a cabinet, the orientationsensor 1574 senses that the video system 1512 is oriented in thisconfiguration and instructs the microprocessor 1572 to provide the touchscreen panel 1517 with a control panel 1576 the opposite of those shownwith reference to FIG. 45 (see FIG. 46). This feature obviates the needfor users of the present system to read upside down instructions whenthe video system 1512 is provided with a touch screen mechanism.

Referring to FIG. 47, the orientation adjustment feature of the videosystem 1612 may also be implemented manually through the inclusion of aswitching button 1674 which will instruct the microprocessor 1672 andtouch panel control system 1660 to orient the control panel 1676 in adesired orientation.

In view of the wide range of functionalities offered in accordance withthe present invention, the video monitor may be supplemented with theuse of Sharp's dual screen monitor technology. In this way, one may viewone video content when looking at the monitor from one angle and viewanother video content when viewing the video monitor from another angle.Sharp's dual screen technology provides for the simultaneously displayof different information and image content in right and left views in asingle unit by directionally controlling the viewing angle of the LCD.This feature makes it possible to provide information and contenttailored to specific users depending on the angle at which they view thescreen. Using a number of technologies, such as a parallax barriersuperimposed on an ordinary TFT LCD, the LCD sends the light from thebacklight into right and left directions, making it possible to showdifferent information and visual content on the same screen at the sametime depending on the viewing angle. Controlling the viewing angle inthis way allows the information or visual content to be tailored tomultiple users viewing the same screen. For example, one user can viewthe display as a PC screen for browsing the Internet or for editingvideo shot using a digital camera (IT) while at the same time anotheruser watches video content such as a movie or a TV broadcast (A/V).

While the preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it willbe understood that there is no intent to limit the invention by suchdisclosure, but rather, is intended to cover all modifications andalternate constructions falling within the spirit and scope of theinvention as defined in the appended claims.

1. A vehicle, comprising: a ceiling with a headliner; a cradle securedwithin the ceiling of the vehicle such that it is substantially flushwith the headliner, the cradle being shaped and dimensioned forselectively receiving and securely holding a video system; a cover forcovering the cradle when it is not in use, the cover being substantiallyflush with the headliner and conforming with a profile thereof; andwherein the cover includes a light.
 2. An entertainment system for avehicle including a ceiling with a headliner, comprising: a cradleshaped and dimensioned for securing within the ceiling of the vehiclesuch that it is substantially flush with the headliner; a video system;wherein the cradle is shaped and dimensioned for selectively receivingand securely holding the video system; a cover for covering the cradlewhen it is not in use, the cover being substantially flush with theheadliner and conforming with a profile thereof; and wherein the coverincludes a light.
 3. The entertainment system according to claim 2,wherein the video system includes electrical connections shaped anddimensioned for selective engagement with electrical connections formedwithin the cradle.
 4. The entertainment system according to claim 2,wherein the cradle includes a primary recess into which the video systemis mounted.
 5. The entertainment system according to claim 2, whereinthe video system includes a video source and a video monitor.